Party briefs MPs on key changes

The Orange Democratic Movement on Thursday briefed its MPs through changes it will push for in the draft constitution.

At a Parliamentary Group meeting, ODM said it will seek the creation of 25 regional governments and increase counties to between 74 and 80.

The meeting, chaired by Henry Kosgey and attended by Prime Minister Raila Odinga, also resolved to retain the current eight provinces.

“We are confident our amendments will sail through in Parliament next week,” party secretary-general Prof Anyang’ Nyong’o said after the meeting attended by more than 30 MPs.

Sources in the closed-door meeting who cannot be named because they are not authorised to speak on behalf of the party, said there was unanimity on the three units of devolution as explained to them by law lecturer Mutakha Kangu.

Those who spoke at the meeting are said to have stressed that the party stands by its often stated support for a Majimbo system of government.

The speakers, who included several Rift Valley MPs including Isaac Ruto (Chepalungu), Dr Sally Kosgei (Aldai) and Sammy Mwaita (Baringo Central) supported calls for the creation of the 25 regional governments within the existing provincial boundaries.

This was seen as a move to appease Rift Valley supporters who are opposed to Nakuru District being transferred to Central Province while increasing counties will appease supporters from “small” communities.

MPs Wilfred Machage (Kuria), Fred Kapondi (Mt Elgon), Ekwe Ethuro (Turkana Central) and Sospeter Ojamong’ (Amagoro) said that their interests were not considered in the 47 counties as they could not produce a senator due to their fewer numbers.

ODM will need the backing of at least 145 MPs to pass any amendment in the House. Prof Nyong’o said ODM MPs had been tasked to lobby their friends in PNU to win their support for the changes.